Travel News

World view: Palm Springs, California

Photographer Tom Ferguson joins a tour through the desert city's architectural landmarks - and captures the spirit of the moment.

Photographer Tom Ferguson joins a tour through the desert city's architectural landmarks - and captures the spirit of the moment.
"Up to 100,000 fans descend on Palm Springs every February for Modernism Week, when the city's Mid-century architecture and design are admired and discussed. As both an architect and a photographer, this shot encapsulates the week for me.
"In the background is the San Jacinto mountain range, and on approach is a Rolls-Royce, evocative of the glamour of Palm Springs in the mid-20th century, when it was a playground for the rich and famous. It's shot in the Canyon View Estates, built in 1962 and promoted at the time as 'Prestige homes for people of prestige, who appreciate the very best… for those that enjoy carefree, gracious living among gracious friends.'
"There are probably 10 of these open-top buses cruising around the city's architectural highlights during Modernism Week. As is so often the case as a photographer, I'm observing the observers."